A Note on the Beer

The beer of choice in Guatemala, hands down, is Gallo. Until recently, Gallo was the only beer you could get in Guatemala. Upstarts like Dorado or Brahva are making progress here, but with a near monopoly on the beer market, Gallo remains strong, steadfast, and most importantly, everywhere.

Seven-time winner of the prestigious Monde Selection Medal (awarded by the Institute of International Quality Oversight in Brussels, Belgium—how do you get on that crew, I wonder?), Gallo is also a pride symbol in Guatemala due to this worldwide recognition. Hard not to like a beer the locals laud with such fervency.

For my part, I put Gallo somewhere between Beck’s Light and Dos Equis Amber, only more bitter. Distinct and full-bodied, Gallo goes down well with food or without (what Import doesn’t?), and leaves a memorable aftertaste—a party in your mouth for sure.

The only downside I can see is the name. Gallo is the Spanish word for rooster, also translated cock. One must be careful how one invites the boys over for a Gallo no doubt!

If you’re interested in tracking down a six’er of Guatemala’s finest, it goes under the name Famosa Lager in the States. Otherwise, you’ll have to share one with me here, where I guarantee it will taste the better!


NOTE: "A Note on the Beer" is solely for those that actually care about the beer situation in this faraway place: first and foremost, my Dad, whose dialogues on the virtues of beer enjoyment, not to mention his tutelage in the art and craft of beer-making, I value immensely; next, mi hermanos Mike and John, then Toddy, Schmitt, Mossy, the rest of the Chubbs for that matter, D.R. Miller, Dr. Bill Moulder, and of course Cookie Miklautsch, John Paul, Greg G., Robert, and lets not forget Kristin’s fine (though lightweight) uncles Mike and Al. Saludos!